New afforestation initiatives in Natura 2000 sites

The aim of this initiative is to restore the land that was previously derelict, and to complement the rest of the surrounding ecological environment

Around a thousand trees and shrubs are currently being planted at the Majjistral Park as part of ongoing works by Ambjent Malta to improve the natural environment, a government statement read.

The project is part of an agreement between the Ministry for the Environment, Climate Change and Planning and the Turkish Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry.

This afforestation initiative was announced by Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia during a treeplanting activity at Majjistral Park, one of the major Natura 2000 sites on the islands, which was also attended by representatives from the Turkish Ministry, Turkish Embassy, and Ambjent Malta.

The Minister said that such initiatives demonstrate the government’s resolve towards strengthening the rehabilitation and restoration efforts in favour of the environment.

He said that, through this collaboration, Ambjent Malta is planting a thousand trees and shrubs in the Majjistral Nature Park. The trees are from local stock, and an irrigation system has been installed with them, so that they can be watered as needed.

The project will also see the rehabilitation of 8,000m² of green land.

“Such efforts are important because the repercussions of pollution and climate change are something that affects all countries, and tangible change can only be brought about through agreement and collective cooperation,” the Minister said.

The aim of this initiative is to restore the land that was previously derelict, and to complement the rest of the surrounding ecological environment. For this reason, the trees and shrubs planted on this site are indigenous and compatible with the climate of Malta, such as olive trees, carob trees and the national Maltese tree, known as tal-għargħar.

On behalf of the Turkish Embassy, Charges D’Affaires ad interim Mrs Tugba Alan Ozdenfedakar explained that this initiative is part of a joint treeplanting initiative on an international scale, with the aim of creating synergy regarding forestation and serving to build a greener future for everyone.

Majjistral Park Chairman Sammy Vella praised this initiative, which he said is a step in the right direction. He stated that “in the past, we tried to plant more trees, but we haven’t always planted wisely. Today, we are much more aware that we need to be selective in our planting strategies.”